Outdoor Kitchen Buying Guide

Why Do You Need an Outdoor Kitchen?

Outdoor cooking, barbecues, and alfresco dining are fantastic ways to spend quality time with loved ones, no matter the season. Picture backyard cricket and a sausage sizzle during the New Zealand summer, or winding down on a chilly winter evening with a glass of wine—your outdoor kitchen is not just an extension of your home but a central hub for gathering and entertaining. A thoughtfully designed outdoor space also enhances the value of your property while providing growing families with additional room to cook, dine, and relax.

Planning your outdoor space can feel overwhelming, but we’ve made it simple. At Appliances Online, we highlight outdoor kitchen essentials and offer expert tips to help you create the ultimate alfresco dining area and outdoor BBQ setup that will be the envy of the neighbourhood.

What Is an Outdoor Kitchen and How Should You Build One?

Transforming a section of your patio or backyard into an outdoor kitchen is the perfect solution for those who love to entertain and barbecue. An outdoor kitchen mirrors many features of an indoor kitchen, such as cooking and washing areas. However, instead of a traditional cooktop, you’ll have a barbecue, and instead of a standard refrigerator, you can opt for an outdoor beverage fridge designed specifically for entertaining.

Outdoor kitchen appliances are built to withstand the elements, crafted from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel. They also feature enhanced functionality tailored for outdoor use—for example, a rangehood with a powerful exhaust or a patio heater to keep you cosy on cooler nights.

Start designing your dream outdoor space with modular kitchen components. These may include a sink, cabinets, metal drawers, side burners, benchtops, and even built-in barbecues or beverage fridges. You can mix and match these modules to configure a kitchen that suits your preferences and the available space.

Explore our range of outdoor kitchen modules and get ready to entertain or serve up your next family feast alfresco.

Choosing the Right BBQ Type

• Gas BBQs: Ideal for convenience and quick cooking, with precise temperature control.

• Charcoal BBQs: Perfect for those who love smoky, authentic flavours.

• Pellet Grills: Great for slow-cooking and infusing food with rich, wood-fired flavours.

• Smokers: A must-have for BBQ enthusiasts who enjoy low-and-slow cooking.

Selecting the Right Size

Picking the right size can be tricky. As a general rule, consider a BBQ that is slightly larger than what you initially think you’ll need. If you often entertain guests, a model with at least four independently controlled burners is recommended. This allows you to cook smaller meals efficiently while still having the flexibility for large gatherings.

Choosing the Right Fuel Source

• Natural Gas: A cost-effective, permanent solution for homes with existing gas connections.

• LPG: A flexible and portable option for those who want to move their BBQ or take it on trips.

• Charcoal & Wood Pellets: Best for those who prioritise flavour over convenience.

Protecting Your BBQ

Regardless of whether your BBQ is built-in or freestanding, investing in a high-quality cover is essential. Even in covered outdoor spaces, exposure to humidity, dust, and other elements can impact longevity.

Outdoor Smokers: Are They Worth It?

If you love experimenting with flavours and cooking techniques, an outdoor smoker is a great addition to your outdoor kitchen. Kamado grills, pellet smokers, and offset smokers allow you to slow-cook meats to perfection, adding an entirely new dimension to your cooking experience.

Choosing the Best BBQ For Your Location

Selecting a BBQ suited to your environment ensures longevity. If you live in a coastal area, consider 316 stainless steel, which is more resistant to salt and humidity. For urban or mountainous regions, 304 stainless steel is a durable and cost-effective choice.
If you live in an apartment, be mindful of strata by-laws, as some buildings restrict the use of smokers or large gas BBQs due to smoke and ventilation concerns.
With the right BBQ, you can create an outdoor kitchen that’s functional, stylish, and built for unforgettable gatherings.